Bus

Aggravated assaults up on MBTA's transit system

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Transit Police Department statistics show that while smart phone and other handheld devices thefts are down, aggravated assaults are up, according to The Boston Globe.

While the overall number of serious crimes on The T decreased slightly, from 395 in 2013 to 384 in 2014, aggravated assaults — assault with any kind of weapon — was up by 38%, an increase from 48 to 66 incidents compared to the same period the year prior. MBTA Transit Police is seeking to determine the reason for the increase, but say a broad trend has been hard to find. For the full story, click here.

The campaign is similar to the one developed for subways, with the focus on reminding passengers that avoiding certain behaviors can ensure a faster and more pleasant ride for everyone. Reminders include step aside to let others off first; remove your backpack; and don’t clip your nails on the bus.

While Founder Matt George is interested in connecting Capitol Hill, K Street and Dupont Circle, it’s not yet clear if those will be the neighborhoods Bridj starts with. The start-up is encouraging interested customers to request specific routes on its website

Des Moines Area Regional Transit's 60-foot low floor articulated buses will replace high-floor buses and include newly installed ramps, remanufactured power trains, transmissions, engines and brakes. It will also be equipped with two ADA compliant wheelchair lifts.